This Lemon Herb Salmon Fillet is a healthy and tasty dish. The salmon is flavored with fresh lemon, herbs, and a little olive oil, making it bright and flavorful. It’s perfect for a quick, nutritious meal.
I like to imagine I’m at a fancy restaurant when I make this, even in my own kitchen. It’s easy to make and makes me feel fancy without much effort!
For best results, serve with some steamed vegetables or a side salad. It’s a simple, wholesome meal that’s great for any day of the week.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon fillet: Use fresh or thawed salmon for best flavor. I find skin-on works well to hold the fillet together and adds crispy texture. If you prefer, cod or halibut are good alternatives but will change the flavor slightly.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. I always keep extra lemons on hand for this. If lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is best for vibrant flavor.
Herbs (such as dill or parsley): Fresh herbs add brightness. I love dill with salmon; it’s classic. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch—just use about a third of the amount as they’re more concentrated.
Olive oil or melted butter: Helps keep the salmon moist and carries the flavors. I prefer olive oil for its richness, but melted butter adds a lovely depth. Both are good options; just don’t skip this step!
Garlic (optional): Adds a subtle depth. Use freshly minced garlic for the best aroma. If you don’t have garlic, garlic powder is a quick substitute—just use less since it’s more concentrated.
How do I keep the salmon from overcooking or drying out?
To avoid drying out, cook the salmon just until it flakes easily with a fork—about 10-12 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on it as it nears the end of cooking. Using a meat thermometer to reach 125°F ensures perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Preheat your oven or pan for even cooking.
- Check the salmon around 10 minutes; begin testing for doneness.
- Remove once it flakes easily and is opaque in the middle.
- Let it rest a few minutes before serving for juiciness.
How to Make Lemon Herb Salmon Fillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
For the Marinade and Sauce
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes. Cooking: 15 minutes. Rest: 5 minutes. Total: 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade
Mix lemon juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the Salmon
Place salmon fillets in a dish. Pour marinade over each. Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven or Grill
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, oil the grates lightly.
4. Cook the Salmon
Place fillets on a baking sheet or grill. Cook for 12-15 minutes until flaky.
5. Rest and Serve
Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes. Serve with lemon slices or your favorite sides.
